PCC Recognized By State of California for Its Success in Serving Black Students

The state of California has designated Pasadena City College as a Black Serving Institution in recognition of the college’s commitment to the success of Black students.

“Being awarded this designation, particularly in the inaugural year, speaks volumes about PCC and the commitment of our faculty, staff, and administrators,” said PCC President José A. Gómez. “The BSI designation affirms what happens on this campus every day: we are removing barriers, reducing equity gaps, and helping Black students achieve their dreams.”

The BSI designation was created by Senate Bill 1348, which was authored by former California state senator Steven Bradford. It includes a framework for identifying California colleges and universities that are making significant progress in retention, graduation, representation, belonging, and closing equity gaps for Black students. Colleges and universities were invited to apply for the designation.

PCC Associate Vice President Kari Bolen said the designation carries great meaning for students, their families, and community.

“In a world where the barriers for Black students are real and persistent, this designation signals that Pasadena City College is a place where their voices are valued, their experiences are centered, and their success is our priority,” said Bolen. “It’s a declaration that we see them, we support them, and we are committed to building pathways that honor their brilliance, resilience, and potential.”

The Governing Board for Black-Serving Institutions, chaired by Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, administers the California BSI designation program and selects the colleges that hold the distinction. Other members of the board include legislative appointees and designees from the University of California (UC), and California State University (CSU) systems, the California Community Colleges, the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities, and the California Legislative Black Caucus.

“This board brings together exceptional leaders who are dedicated to advancing Black student success, recognizing institutions that are truly supporting their students, and challenging all campuses to uphold that standard of excellence,” Kounalakis said.

Steven Gibson, president of PCC Board of Trustees, said the designation will become an important tool for Black students and their families.

“This designation will further equip students with important information they need when deciding which college or university to attend,” Gibson said.

Gómez expressed gratitude to all those who worked to create, advocate for, and implement the designation.

“The leadership and advocacy of my colleague, Dr. Keith Curry at Compton Community College, has been instrumental,” Gómez said. “PCC will continue to support Black students and live up to this honor. We want to do far more than meet the criteria; we want to help set the bar.”

Since its founding over 100 years ago, Pasadena City College (pasadena.edu) has been a beacon of higher education for residents of the West San Gabriel Valley. Today, PCC educates more than 22,000 students in a wide range of programs for degrees and job-training certificates. The college is a three-time Aspen Institute Top Ten Community College and consistently leads the state for transfer to the UC and CSU systems, as well as public and private universities around the nation.